Renowned Nigerian highlife musician Mike Ejeagha, affectionately known as “Gentleman Mike Ejeagha,” has passed away at the age of 95. He died on Friday, June 6, 2025, at approximately 8 p.m. at the 32 Garrison Hospital in Enugu, following a prolonged illness.
Born on April 4, 1930, in Imezi Owa, Enugu State, Ejeagha was celebrated for his mastery in blending Igbo folklore, proverbs, and moral storytelling with highlife music. His iconic track “Ka Esi Le Onye Isi Oche,” known for its catchy “Gwo Gwo Gwo” chorus, gained renewed popularity in 2024 through a viral dance challenge initiated by comedian Brain Jotter.
Ejeagha’s contributions to preserving and promoting Igbo culture through music are monumental, with over 300 recordings archived in the National Archives of Nigeria. His legacy continues to resonate across generations, ensuring that his storytelling and musical artistry remain an integral part of Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, expressed profound grief over Ejeagha’s passing, describing him as a cultural ambassador whose humility and storytelling through music made him a timeless figure across generations. Governor Mbah assured that the state government would further immortalize the legend in death.
Ejeagha is survived by his children, grandchildren, and a rich legacy of music that continues to echo across time.